NH likely to get birth control over the counter

On Thursday, May 3rd the Senate approved a bill to allow birth control over-the-counter.

The bill, HB 1822, would allow a woman to purchase hormonal contraceptives directly from a pharmacist, after completing a screening interview. Any health insurer licensed in New Hampshire would have to cover the screening interview. Any pharmacist dispensing birth control pills would have to complete a training program.

The bill now heads to Gov. Chris Sununu for his signature.

Supporters argue that hormonal contraceptives are one of the safest and most-studied medications on the market, so there is minimal risk in allowing women to buy them over-the-counter. Increasing access to birth control pills will decrease the number of unintended pregnancies.

Visit our issue page to learn more about ideas to increase or limit access to contraception in New Hampshire.

Opponents argue that a screening interview with a pharmacist cannot replace a doctor-patient relationship. They believe a doctor’s involvement is necessary to protect women from risks like blood clots.

Do you support allowing birth control pills over-the-counter? Let us know in the comments below.